St. Paul's Chapel (Columbia University)

2014_Columbia_University_St._Paul's_Chapel

St. Paul's Chapel is a historic chapel located on the campus of Columbia University in New York City. It was designed by the architectural firm Ives and Stiles and completed in 1907. The chapel is an example of Romanesque Revival architecture and serves as a significant religious and cultural landmark within the university.

History

St. Paul's Chapel was constructed as part of the Morningside Heights campus expansion of Columbia University. The chapel was funded by a donation from Olivia Egleston Phelps Stokes and her brother Anson Phelps Stokes, who were prominent philanthropists in New York City. The chapel was dedicated in 1907 and has since been used for various religious services, ceremonies, and events.

Architecture

The chapel is designed in the Romanesque Revival style, characterized by its rounded arches, thick walls, and large towers. The interior features intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and a grand pipe organ. The chapel's design reflects the influence of medieval European church architecture, adapted to fit the urban context of New York City.

Usage

St. Paul's Chapel serves as a non-denominational space for worship and reflection for the Columbia University community. It hosts regular religious services, weddings, memorials, and other significant events. The chapel is also used for musical performances and lectures, contributing to the cultural life of the university.

Notable Features

• The stained glass windows, which depict various biblical scenes and figures.
• The grand pipe organ, which is used for both religious services and musical performances.
• The intricate woodwork and carvings that adorn the interior of the chapel.

Related Pages

• Columbia University
• Morningside Heights
• Romanesque Revival architecture
• Ives and Stiles
• Olivia Egleston Phelps Stokes
• Anson Phelps Stokes

See Also

• List of Columbia University buildings
• Columbia University campus